'Launch of navy's indigenous aircraft carrier by 2013'

Admitting delay in construction of the navy's indigenous aircraft carrier, the government on Wednesday told the Rajya Sabha that the launch of the ship is now expected to take place next year.

In a written reply to the House, Defence Minister A K Antony said, "The complexity of the project and this being the first ship of its kind being built in India, has led to timelines being extended."

As per the phase-I, the first launch of the ship was envisaged in October, 2010, he said.

"However, due to delays in receipt of steel plates and pre-launch equipment like diesel alternators and gearboxes, the launch of the ship is now expected in 2013," Antony said.

The contract for building the first indigenous aircraft carrier for the Indian Navy has been awarded to Cochin Shipyard Limited.

On scheduled delivery of the ship, he said, "Delivery of the ship is currently envisaged in 2018." In reply to a question on funds for defence schemes, Antony told the House that for 2012-13 Rs 66,032.24 crore has been allocated for the purpose.